Last Updated on February 23, 2023
Key Points
- Two new permanent residence visa streams will open for Hong Kong and British National Overseas passport holders beginning in March 2022
Overview
On Nov. 1, 2021, the government of Australia announced two new permanent residence visa streams for Hong Kong and British National Overseas (BNO) passport holders. These pathways will open on Mar. 5, 2022 and will create new permanent residence pathways for graduates and skilled workers who have been in Australia on extended visas.
What are the Changes?
Two new streams will open for Hong Kong and BNO passport holders to apply for permanent residence in Australia.
Subclass 191 – the Hong Kong (regional) stream:
- For primary visa holders who have continuously lived, worked and studied exclusively in a designated regional area of Australia for at least three years and who held a qualifying visa throughout the duration the three-year period.
Subclass 189 – the Hong Kong stream:
- For primary visa holders who normally reside in Australia for a period of at least four years, and who held a qualifying visa throughout the duration of the four-year period.
Looking Ahead
These new visa streams will open for applicants on Mar. 5, 2022. Continue to check the government of Australia’s website and Envoy’s website for additional information and updates.
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Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an attorney at one of the two U.S. Law Firms working with the Envoy Platform or another qualified professional. On non-U.S. immigration issues, consult an Envoy global immigration service provider or another qualified representative.